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GED Vs. High School Diploma Video: Determining the Right Choice for Adults Transcript

Thinking of going back to school? Maybe you're not sure whether a GED program or traditional high school diploma would most benefit you. There are benefits and potential downsides for both options. Something the two do share is the transformative effect they can have on your employment and education prospects. Whichever route you do decide on, bountiful programs in every region of the country practically guarantee you will be able to find a program that's right for you.

Introduction

GED or high school diploma? If you believe conventional wisdom, you might think that a high school diploma is a more acceptable credential for getting hired on at a job or accepted for study at a college. However, the truth is a little less definite than this prevailing attitude suggests. Although high school is the best option for many students, GED programs are often just as effective for those looking to improve their prospects in the job market or secondary education. The key to determining the best option for you is consideration of the benefits and potential drawbacks of each route within your life circumstance.

GED Test

The GED test consists of five separate parts designed to measure academic skills emphasized in high school education. These areas are reading, writing, math, social studies and science. While not viewed as exactly equivalent to a high school education, the GED opens up most of the same doors that a traditional diploma does. This is due in large measure to the fact that there are no course requirements. Rather, an individual earns the GED credential immediately upon passing all five areas of testing. Passing each of these areas can prove difficult, especially for those who have been out of academic environments for an extended period of time. Many students take advantage of preparation programs available in books, online and at colleges and community education environments. While intensive study may be required, time commitment can be significantly less than that of traditional high school diploma programs.

High School Diploma

Whereas obtaining a GED is all about passing tests, a high school diploma is only available to those who complete specific coursework. This coursework, regulated by a given district or education authority, are often taken over the course of a few years. Those considering this option will have to consider the fact that many traditional high schools have age requirements; most don't allow attendance a few years beyond a student's eighteenth birthday. As a result, many community colleges and trade schools offer high school programming. There are also alternative options for schools online. It is important to make sure your choice is accredited by a regional education authority. The United States Department of Education is a good source of information on schools who are credentialed.

Conclusion

Weighing the benefits and potential drawbacks of GED and high school programs can help a clear option emerge for you. Regardless of the choice you make, earning an education credential has the potential to improve your career prospects. That's not to mention the sense of personal accomplishment and increased confidence an individual can carry to new challenges.

Sources

www.acenet.edu

www.ed.gov

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